Does Drinking Water Actually Hydrate Your Skin?

Odds are, you’ve heard that drinking water is essential to keeping your skin healthy, clear and youthful-looking. But, is this really the case or is it just a skin care myth? For many, especially those with dry skin, the question of whether or not drinking water hydrates skin is top of mind.

You may fall down a rabbit hole looking for the answer, so we consulted with Dr. Michelle Henry, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist To find out if drinking water hydrates your skin. Keep reading to discover the truth about the link between drinking water and the state of your skin health. 

Does Drinking Water Hydrate Your Skin?

According to Dr. Henry, drinking a sufficient amount of water is essential to maintaining hydrated skin. “If your body is insufficiently hydrated, your skin will lose its turgor and bounce,” she says. “Sufficient levels of hydration can be achieved by drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.” 

It’s also important to note that foods with high water content (think: cucumber and melon) count too. 

“Hydration is essential for healthy, radiant and glowing skin,” Dr. Henry says. When your skin is hydrated, she notes, it’s important to lock in moisture with hydrating skin care products. 

Skin Care Products to Hydrate Your Skin

When it comes to skin care products that lock in moisture, Dr. Henry recommends semi-occlusive moisturizers. These types of moisturizers help to reinforce the skin’s protective barrier and retain the water. 

In case you’re not familiar, occlusives create a barrier over the skin to keep  moisture from escaping. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, occlusives ( mineral oils, squalene, beeswax and petroleum jelly) physically block water loss.

One of Dr. Henry’s favorite occlusive moisturizers is the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, pro-retinol and vitamin C, the moisturizer works to retain the skin’s moisture levels, boost radiance and reduce the look of wrinkles. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling smooth without looking greasy or shiny.

Another great option is the L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Anti-Aging Day Moisturizer SPF 25. It’s made with an antioxidant recovery complex – derived from bitter orange – that helps replenish the skin day after day. After applying the SPF-infused formula onto clean skin in the morning, it helps encourage the skin’s natural renewal process and leaves behind younger, more radiant-looking skin. 

Next: Is It Okay to Double Up On Hyaluronic Acid in Your Skin Care and Makeup?

Written By: Caitlyn Martyn, Photo: Chaunte Vaughn